Pumpkin seeds are much more than just a snack to sprinkle on various recipes. They are packed with nutrients and can elevate any dish, from salads to granola. Moreover, it's very easy to make your own dried or roasted seeds while harvesting your own pumpkins from the garden. In this comprehensive guide, discover how to produce your own edible pumpkin seeds. Grab your gardening (and kitchen) tools and get comfortable: we have work to do!
The benefits of pumpkin seeds
Pumpkin seeds are renowned for their health benefits. They are said to contain antioxidants, fibre, and omega-3 fatty acids. These elements may help regulate blood sugar levels and strengthen the immune system. Consuming these little seeds could therefore be a delicious way to take care of yourself.
Which variety of pumpkin to choose?
Before diving headfirst into the adventure of pumpkin seeds, a crucial choice must be made: which variety of pumpkin will you choose for your precious seeds? Not all pumpkins are equal in terms of seed quality, and every gardener has their own criteria (for taste and cultivation).
Pepitas or Cucurbita Pepo
If you're looking for seeds without a shell, "pepitas" pumpkins are for you. Varieties like Styrian pumpkin (Cucurbita pepo 'styriaca') or 'Lady Godiva' are particularly rich in shell-less seeds.
Musky pumpkins
For more traditional seeds with a shell, musky pumpkins like Butternut are an excellent choice. Not only are they delicious to eat, but their seeds are also perfectly edible once dried.
Winter pumpkins
Winter pumpkins such as squash, red kuri squash, or spaghetti squash are also good options. However, they are generally a bit larger than other seeds.
Warning: gourds, often used for decoration due to their attractive appearance, contain seeds that are not edible. They can be toxic and therefore dangerous if ingested.
How to dry pumpkin seeds?
Producing edible pumpkin seeds requires a few key steps, from harvesting to storage. Follow this guide to transform your pumpkins into a nutritious and delicious snack.
1- Choose a nice ripe pumpkin to maximise the quality of your seeds.
2- Cut the pumpkin in half and use a spoon to extract the seeds. Place them in a sieve to separate them from the pulp.
3- Rinse the seeds under cold water to remove any remaining flesh.
Tip: To more easily remove the pulp, let the seeds soak in a bowl of water for a few hours.
4- Drain the seeds and dry them lightly with a paper towel or a clean cloth.
5- Once dry, spread the seeds in a single layer on a baking tray.
6- Preheat your oven to 70°C and bake the seeds for about 10 to 15 minutes to speed up the drying process.
7- Allow the seeds to cool completely at room temperature.
8- Store your dried pumpkin seeds in an airtight container to keep them fresh for longer.
And there you have it! Your seeds are ready to be snacked on or used to decorate a salad, incorporated into bread, or any other dish you have in mind.
And how to roast the seeds?
After drying your pumpkin seeds, why not take it a step further by roasting them? Perfect for snacking, this simple and quick method will not only enhance their flavour but also give them an irresistible crunch. Here’s how to do it:
Ingredients
- Dried pumpkin seeds
- Olive or sunflower oil
- Spices to taste: paprika, salt, curry, garlic powder, etc.
Preparation steps
1- Preheat your oven to 180°C.
2- Place your dried pumpkin seeds in a bowl. Add a tablespoon of olive oil and mix well to coat all the seeds. Sprinkle with spices if desired.
3- Spread the seeds in a single layer on a baking tray lined with parchment paper. Bake for 10 to 15 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even roasting.
4- Remove the seeds from the oven and let them cool before enjoying. They store very well in an airtight container, but are so delicious that they might disappear quickly!
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